2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) - · PDF fileResidential Provisions of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code . PNNL-SA-105592 . ... R405 . PRESCRIPTIVE

BUILDING ENERGY CODES www.energycodes.gov

BUILDING ENERGY CODES PROGRAM

Residential Provisions of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code

PNNL-SA-105592


– Energy codes and standards set minimum efficiency requirements for new and renovated buildings, assuring reductions in energy use and emissions over the life of the building. Energy codes are a subset of building codes, which establish baseline requirements and govern building construction.

– Code buildings are more comfortable and cost-effective to operate, assuring energy, economic and environmental benefits.

Why care about IECC?


The Family of I-Codes

International Building Code International Mechanical Code International Fuel Gas Code International Property Maintenance Code International Fire Code International Zoning Code International Plumbing Code International Existing Building Code International Private Sewage Disposal Code International Performance Code International Residential Code International Energy Conservation Code International Wildlife-Urban Interface Code


IECC addresses only energy

IRC addresses all topics (structural, plumbing, etc.)

• Allows builder to carry only one code book

• Chapter 11 covers energy efficiency

In 2015, IECC consolidated with IRC energy chapter (actually a change to the IRC, not the IECC)

IECC addresses both residential and commercial; IRC addresses subset of residential, detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses 3 stories or fewer

Relationship Between IRC & IECC

VS


Ch. 1 Scope and Application / Administrative and Enforcement Ch. 2 Definitions Ch. 3 General Requirements Ch. 4 Commercial Energy Efficiency Ch. 5 Existing Buildings - NEW Ch. 6 Referenced Standards Index

Structure of the 2015 IECC

Ch. 1 Scope and Application / Administrative and Enforcement Ch. 2 Definitions Ch. 3 General Requirements Ch. 4 Residential Energy Efficiency Ch. 5 Existing Buildings - NEW Ch. 6 Referenced Standards Index

Commercial

Section

Residential

Section


Scope Section R101

Residential Buildings: One- and two-family dwellings,

townhouses of any size and R-2, R-3, R-4 ≤ 3 stories

All buildings that are not “residential” by definition are “commercial”

1831523


Scope Section R101.4.1 - Mixed Occupancy Section R101.5 - Compliance

Treat the residential occupancy under the applicable residential code

Treat the commercial occupancy under the commercial code

Code Official has final authority – Compliance materials, software, worksheets

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Scope Section R102.1 – Alternative Materials, Design, and Methods of Construction and Equipment

• The code is not intended to prevent installation of any material or prohibit design or method of construction that is not specifically prescribed in this code

• Such material, equipment, or design shall be approved by the code official


Documentation shall be prepared by a registered design professional (where required)

Electronic media can be used Information required:

Insulation materials and R-values Fenestration U-factors, SHGC Area-weighted U-factor and SHGC

calculations Mechanical, SWH, equipment types,

sizes, and efficiencies Equipment and system controls Duct sealing, duct and pipe insulation

and location Air sealing details

Scope/Construction Documents Section R103

The building thermal envelope shall be represented


Inspections, R104 – Successive and final inspections, and reinspections if necessary

Code Validity, R105 – Portions of code deemed to be illegal or void shall not affect the

remainder of the code Referenced codes and standards, R106

– Considered part of the requirements of the code, but IECC provisions take precedence

Fees, R107 – Must be paid before permit is issued – Required in accordance with schedule

Stop Work Order, R108 Authority of code official Failure to Comply subject to fine

Board of Appeals, R109

Scope Section R104-R109


• Construction work for which a permit is required is subject to inspection by code official or designated agent

• Required inspections include: – Footing and foundation – Framing and rough-in – Plumbing rough-in – Mechanical rough-in – Final

Inspections Section R104


Codes and standards listed in Chapter are considered part of the requirements of this code to the “prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections R106.1.1 and R106.1.2” • Conflicts, R106.1.1 – where differences occur between

this code and the referenced codes and standards, provisions of this code apply

• Provisions in reference codes and standards, R106.1.2 – “where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard”

Referenced Codes and Standards Section R106.1


Permanently posted on a wall in the space where the furnace is located, a utility room or an approved location inside the building

Don’t cover or obstruct the visibility of other required labels Includes the following:

– R-values of insulation installed for the thermal building envelope, including ducts outside conditioned spaces

– U-factors and SHGC for fenestration – Area-weighted U-factor and SHGC calculations – Results from any required duct system and building envelope air

leakage testing – HVAC efficiencies and types – SWH equipment – Duct sealing, duct and pipe insulation and location – Air sealing details

Certificate Section R401.3


Certificate lists “gas-fired unvented room heater”, “electric furnace”, or “baseboard electric heater”, rather than listing an efficiency for those heating types

Certificate (cont’d)


Climate-Specific Requirements: Roofs Above grade walls Foundations

• Basements • Slabs • Crawlspaces

Skylights, windows, and doors Solar Heat Gain Coefficient in warm climates

Mandatory Requirements (apply everywhere): Infiltration control Duct insulation, sealing & testing, no use of building cavities HVAC controls Piping Insulation and circulating service hot water requirements Equipment sizing Dampers Lighting

Overview of Structure


IECC Terminology Prescriptive

• Required but can be lessened or eliminated in trade for compensating improvements elsewhere

Mandatory • Required and cannot be traded down, even in the simulated

performance path

Some elements have “hard limits” aka, “trade-off limits” a prescriptive requirement that can only be traded so far components can only be traded so far when complying with

the performance requirements

Compliance


Climate Zones for the 2015 IECC

New – Tropical climate zone now defined


Focus is on building envelope – Ceilings, walls, windows, floors, foundations – Sets insulation and fenestration levels, and solar heat gain

coefficients – Infiltration control - caulk and seal to prevent air leaks, and test

Ducts, air handlers, filter boxes – seal, insulate, and test Limited space heating, air conditioning, and water heating

requirements – Federal law sets most equipment efficiency requirements, not the

I-codes No appliance requirements Lighting equipment – 75% of lamps to be high-efficacy

lamps or 75% of lighting fixtures to have only high-efficacy lamps

Overview of Residential Code Requirements


IECC Compliance - Four Options

PRESCRIPTIVE ENERGY

RATING INDEX (ERI)

SIMULATED PERFORMANCE

- U-factor (tradeoffs within individual

components) - UA (tradeoffs between

components)

R-value (no tradeoffs)

Simulated Performance Alternative

R405

PRESCRIPTIVE

ERI Compliance Alternative

R406


Building Thermal Envelope consists of: Fenestration Ceilings Walls

• Above grade • Below grade • Mass walls

Floors Slabs Crawlspaces

Exception: Low energy usage < 3.4 Btu/h/sq.ft. OR 1 watt/sq.ft. of floor area OR unconditioned spaces

Building Envelope Specific Requirements

Conditioned Space

attic


Insulation and Fenestration Requirements by Climate Zone

21


• Buildings deemed to comply at elevation < 2,400 feet above sea level where the following conditions are met: – < ½ space is air conditioned – Occupied space is not heated – > 80% solar, wind, or other renewable energy source supplies for

service water heating – SHGC on fenestration < 0.40 or overhang projection factor

> 0.30 – Lighting in accordance with R404 – Exterior roof complies with Table C402.2.11 (commercial cool

roof) or insulation of > R-15, if present, attics above insulation are vented and attics below insulation unvented

– Roof surface slope ¼ inch per foot of run

Tropical Zone - New Section R401.2.1


– Operable fenestration provides ventilation < 14% of floor area for each room or equivalent ventilation is provided by a ventilation fan

– Bedrooms with 2 exterior walls facing different directions have operable fenestration

– Interior doors to bedrooms capable of being secured open – Ceiling fan or rough-in provided for bedrooms and the largest

space that is not used as a bedroom

Tropical Zone - New Section R401.2.1 Continued


Doors and windows NFRC rating or default table

• If no labeled U-factor and SHGC, use default table No glass area limits Exemptions

• Up to 15 ft2 of glazing per dwelling unit (Section R402.3.3) • One side-hinged opaque door assembly up to 24 ft2

(Section R402.3.4)

Fenestration Sections R303.1.3/R402.3


Meet U-factor Meet SHGC

Skylights Section R402.3


Can be used to satisfy U-factor and SHGC requirements Subject to hard limits, even in trade-offs

Fenestration Sections R402.3.1/R402.3.2 - Area-weighted Average


Dynamic glazing (New) Ratio of higher to lower labeled SHGC > 2.4 Automatically controlled to modulate amount of solar gain into

space in multiple steps Shall be considered separately from other fenestration (area

weighted average) Exception – not required to comply when both high and low rated

SHGC meet Table R402.1.2

Fenestration Section R402.3.2 – Dynamic Glazing


Building Envelope consists of: Fenestration Ceilings Walls




Conditioned Space

attic


R-values are to be printed on the batt insulation or rigid foam board. Blown-in insulation must have an insulation certificate at or near the opening of the attic. The certificate should include: R-value of installed thickness Initial installed thickness Installed density Settled thickness/settled R-value Coverage area Number of bags installed

Insulation markers must be installed every 300 square feet and be marked with the minimum installed thickness and affixed to the trusses or joists.

Ceilings Section R303.1


Requirements based on Assembly type Continuous insulation Insulation between framing (cavity insulation)

Meet or exceed R-values

Ceilings


Ceiling insulation requirements in R-value table assume standard truss systems

Ceilings with Attics Section R402.2.1

Possibility of ice dam formations

Cold corners contribute to condensation and mold growth in some locations

Insulation

Insu

latio

n


Prescriptive R-value path encourages raised heel truss (aka, energy truss)

Ceilings with Attics, Cont’d. Section R402.2.1

If insulation is full height uncompressed over exterior wall top plate, covering 100% of ceiling area

• R-30 complies where R-38 is required • R-38 complies where R-49 is required

Note: This reduction ONLY applies to the R-value prescriptive path, not the U-factor or Total UA alternatives

Insulation at full thickness over exterior walls

Insulation

Insu

latio

n


R-30 allowed for up to 500 ft2 or 20% total insulated ceiling area, whichever is less, where Required insulation levels exceed R-30 Design of roof/ceiling assembly does not provide sufficient

amount of space to meet higher levels

Ceilings without Attic Spaces Section R402.2.2 - (e.g., vaulted)

Note: This reduction ONLY applies to the R-value prescriptive path, not the U-factor or Total UA alternatives


For air permeable insulations in vented attics, a baffle shall be installed

Adjacent to soffit and eave vents To maintain an opening ≥ size of vent To extend over top of attic insulation May be of any solid material

Eave Baffle Section R402.2.3


Steel-Frame Ceilings Section R402.2.6

Table R402.2.6 Steel-Frame Ceiling, Wall and Floor Insulation

(R-Value)

Table keys on the wood-frame requirement for the corresponding building component

R-13+R-3

R-13 + 4.2 or R-19 +2.1, or R-21 +2.8 or R-0+9.3 or R-15+R-3.8 or R-21 + 3.1

R-13

Steel Framed Wall

R-49 2x4, or 2x6, or 2x8, or 2x10 R-38

R-38 in 2x4, or 2x6, or 2x8 R-49 any framing

R-30

Steel Joist Ceilingsb

R-38 + 5 R-49

R-49 or R-38 + 3 R-38

R-38 or R-30 + 3 or R-26 + 5 R-30

Steel Truss Ceilingsb

Cold-Formed Steel Equivalent R-valuea

Wood Frame R-value

Requirement

R-0 + 11.2 or R-13 +6.1, or R-15 +5.7 or R-19+5.0 or R-21+4.7

“R-X + R-Y” means R-X cavity plus R-Y continuous

In ceilings, insulation that exceeds the height of the framing must cover the framing


Weatherstrip and insulate doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics and crawl spaces) Insulate to level equivalent to surrounding surfaces

• e.g., required ceiling insulation = R-38, then attic hatch must be insulated to R-38

Provide access to all equipment that prevents damaging or compressing the insulation

Install a wood framed or equivalent baffle or retainer when loose fill insulation is installed Exception: Vertical doors that provide access can meet Table 402.1.2

Access Hatches and Doors Section R402.2.4- Prescriptive




Fenestration Floors Slabs Crawlspaces


Conditioned Space

attic


Exterior above-grade walls Attic kneewalls Skylight shaft walls Perimeter joists Basement walls Garage walls (shared with conditioned space)

Walls Covered by IECC


Above Grade Walls

Insulate walls including those next to unconditioned spaces

Don’t forget to insulate

rim joists


Wood-Frame Walls Section R402

h. First value is cavity insulation, second is continuous insulation so “13+5” means R-13 cavity insulation plus R-5 continuous insulation

CLIMATE ZONE

FENESTRATION U-FACTORb

SKYLIGHTb U-FACTOR

GLAZED FENESTRATION

SHGCb, e

CEILING R-VALUE

WOOD FRAME WALL

R-VALUE

1 NR 0.75 0.25 30 13

2 0.40 0.65 0.25 38 13

3 0.35 0.55 0.25 38 20 or 13+5h

4 except Marine 0.35 0.55 0.40 49 20 or 13+5h

5 and Marine 4 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20 or 13+5h

6 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20+5 or 13+10h

7 and 8 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20+5 or 13+10h

Table R402.1.2 INSULATION AND FENESTRATION REQUIREMENTS BY COMPONENT


• R-value labeled on product package • Listed on certification • Installer signature and date • Posted on site in conspicuous location • Thermal resistance (R-value) determined in accordance

with ASTM C 1363

Walls – Insulated Siding Section R303.1


Steel-Frame Walls Section R402.2.6


(R-Value)

R-13+R-3

R-13 + 4.2 or R-19 +2.1, or R-21 +2.8 or R-0+9.3 or R-15+R-3.8 or R-21 + 3.1

R-13

Steel Framed Wall

R-49 2x4, or 2x6, or 2x8, or 2x10 R-38

R-38 in 2x4, or 2x6, or 2x8 R-49 any framing

R-30

Steel Joist Ceilingsb

R-38 + 5 R-49

R-49 or R-38 + 3 R-38

R-38 or R-30 + 3 or R-26 + 5 R-30

Steel Truss Ceilingsb


Wood Frame R-value

Requirement

R-0 + 11.2 or R-13 +6.1, or R-15 +5.7 or R-19+5.0 or R-21+4.7

“R-X + R-Y” means R-X cavity plus R-Y continuous Table keys on the wood-

frame requirement for the corresponding building component


Mass Walls Section R402.2.5

What type Concrete block, concrete, insulated concrete form (ICF), masonry

cavity, brick (other than brick veneer), earth, and solid timber/logs Any other walls having a heat capacity >6 Btu/ft.2/ºF

Provisions Are assumed to be above grade walls


CLIMATE ZONE

FENESTRATION U-FACTORb

SKYLIGHTb U-FACTOR

GLAZED FENESTRATION

SHGCb, e

CEILING R-VALUE

WOOD FRAME WALL

R-VALUE

MASS WALL

R-VALUEi

1 NR 0.75 0.25 30 13 3/4

2 0.40 0.65 0.25 38 13 4/6

3 0.35 0.55 0.25 38 20 or 13+5h 8/13

4 except Marine 0.35 0.55 0.40 49 20 or 13+5h 8/13

5 and Marine 4 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20 or 13+5h 13/17

6 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20+5 or 13+10h 15/20

7 and 8 0.32 0.55 NR 49 20+5 or 13+10h 19/21

Mass Wall Requirements Section R402.2.5

Second (higher) number applies when more than half the R-value is on the interior of the mass (i.e., when the thermal mass is insulated from the conditioned space)



If structural sheathing covers <40% of gross wall area The continuous insulation R-value can be reduced enough to result in a consistent total sheathing thickness (but not more than R-3) on areas of walls covered by structural sheathing

This reduction does not apply to the U-factor alternative or Total UA alternative approach

Walls with Partial Structural Sheathing Section R402.2.7






Conditioned Space

attic


CLIMATE ZONE … FLOOR

R-VALUE

1 13

2 13

3 19

4 except Marine 19

5 and Marine 4 30g

6 30g

7 and 8 38g

Floors Over Unconditioned Space Section R402.2.8

Exception: If framing members are too small to accommodate R-30, insulation that fills the framing cavity, not less than R-19, complies



Unconditioned space includes unheated basement, vented crawlspace, or outdoor air

Insulation must maintain permanent contact with underside of subfloor

Floors (Over Unconditioned Space) Section 402.2.8

Climate Zones R-Value1-2 13

3-4ab 194c-6 307-8 38 *

*

* Exception

Climate Zones 4c-8 R-19 permitted if cavity completely filled

Exception: cavity insulation permitted to be in contact with the topside of sheathing OR continuous insulation on bottom side of floor framing where combined with insulation meets or exceeds Table R402.1.2 Wood frame wall that extends from bottom to the top of all perimeter floor framing members


Steel-Frame Floors Section R402.2.6


(R-Value)

Table keys on the wood-frame requirement for the corresponding building component

“R-X + R-Y” means R-X cavity plus R-Y continuous

Wood Frame R-value

Requirement

R-19 + 6 in 2x6, or R-19 + 12 in 2x8 or 2x10 R-19

R-19 in 2x6, or R-19 + 6 in 2x8 or 2x10 R-13

Steel Joist Floorb



Defining Below-Grade Walls

Basement Wall – >50% below grade

Below grade Basement wall

Exterior Wall – <50% below grade


≥ 50% below grade Otherwise treat as above-grade wall

Below-Grade Walls

Insulated from top of basement wall down to 10 ft below grade or basement floor, whichever is less

Climate Zones R-Value 1-2 0 3 5/13

4 10/13 4c-8 15/19


CLIMATE ZONE … FLOOR

R-VALUE

BASEMENTc WALL

R-VALUE

1 13 0

2 13 0

3 19 5/13f

4 except Marine 19 10/13

5 and Marine 4 30g 15/19

6 30g 15/19

7 and 8 38g 15/19

Below-Grade Walls Section R402.2.2.9

• “X/Y” means R-X continuous or R-Y cavity

• 15/19 requirement can be met with R-13 cavity (interior) plus R-5 continuous (exterior)

• In zone 3, no insulation required in warm-humid counties (footnote f)







Conditioned Space

attic


Applies to slabs with a floor surface < 12 inches below grade R-10 (typically 2 inches) insulation in Zones 4 and

above

Must extend downward from top of slab a minimum of 24” (Zones 4 and 5) or 48” (Zones 6, 7, and 8)

Insulation can be vertical or extend horizontally under the slab or out from the building

Insulation extending outward must be under 10 inches of soil or pavement

• An additional R-5 is required for heated slabs

• Insulation to depth of the footing or 2 feet, whichever is less in Zones 1-3 for heated slabs

Slab Edge Insulation Section R402.2.10

Figure 2 Flashing

Protection Board

Rigid Insulation

Rigid Insulation

Slab

Rigid Insulation

Slab

Figure 4

Slab

Figure 3

BUILDING ENERGY CODES www.energycodes.gov 55

Slab Edge Insulation Section R402.2.10

Rigid Insulation

Slab

Bevel Cut






Conditioned Space

attic


Implies an unvented crawlspace (aka, conditioned crawlspace) Space must be mechanically vented or receive minimal supply air

(Refer to IRC) Exposed earth must be covered with a continuous Class I vapor

retarder

Crawlspace Wall Insulation Section R402.2.11


Vented Crawlspace Requirements:

The raised floor over the crawlspace must be insulated.

A vapor retarder may be required as part of the floor assembly.

Ventilation openings must exist that are equal to at least 1 square foot for each 150 square feet of crawlspace area and be placed to provide cross-flow (IRC 408.1, may be less if ground vapor retarder is installed).

Ducts in crawlspace must be sealed and have R-6 insulation.

Unvented Crawlspace Requirements:

The crawlspace ground surface must be covered with an approved vapor retarder (e.g., plastic sheeting).

Crawlspace walls must be insulated to the R-value requirements specific for crawlspace walls (IECC Table R402.1.2).

Crawlspace wall insulation must extend from the top of the wall to the inside finished grade and then 24” vertically or horizontally.

Crawlspaces must be mechanically vented (1 cfm exhaust per 50 square feet) or conditioned (heated and cooled as part of the building envelope).

Ducts are inside conditioned space and therefore don’t need to be insulated.

Vented & Unvented Crawlspaces Section R402.2.11


U-factor Alternative Similar to Prescriptive R-Value but uses U-factors instead

• Allows for innovative or less common construction techniques such as structural insulated panels or advanced framing

• Allows no trade-offs between building components

Total UA Alternative Same as U-factor alternative but allows trade-offs across all

envelope components • Primary approach used in REScheck software UA – U-factor x area of assembly

U-Factor and Total UA Alternatives Section R402.1


Requirements by Climate Zone U-Factor Table


Mass Walls Section R402.2.5 - U-Factor

Provisions Apply when wall heat capacity > 6 Btu/ft2/ºF When more than half the insulation is on the interior, the mass wall

U-factors

Climate Zones U-Factor Maximum 1 0.197 / 0.170 2 0.165 / 0.140 3 0.098 / 0.120

4 except Marine 0.098 / 0.087 4 Marine and 5 0.082 / 0.065

6 0.060 / 0.057 7 and 8 0.057 / 0.057


Hard limits on U-factor in northern U.S. (cannot be exceeded, even in trade-offs)

U-0.75 for skylights in Zones 4-8 U-factors of individual windows or skylights can be higher if

maximum area-weighted average is below these limits.

Fenestration Trade-off Limits Section R402.5

Climate Zones U-Factor Maximum 4-5 0.48 6-8 0.40


Hard limit on Solar Heat Gain Coefficient in southern U.S. (Zones 1-3) SHGC cannot exceed

0.50, even in performance trade-offs

SHGCs of individual windows or skylights can be higher if maximum area-weighted average is below this limit.

Fenestration Trade-off Limits, cont’d.

Solar Heat Gain Coefficient


Less stringent insulation R-value and glazing U-factor requirements Sunroom definition: One story structure Glazing area >40% glazing of

gross exterior wall and roof area Separate heating or cooling

system or zone Must be thermally isolated

(both HVAC and physical separation—closeable doors or windows between sunroom and rest of the house)

Can always meet Table R402.1.2 requirements with unlimited glass

Sunrooms


Ceiling Insulation – Zones 1-4 R-19

– Zones 5-8 R-24

Wall Insulation – All zones R-13

Fenestration U-Factor – Zones 4-8 0.45

Skylight U-Factor – Zones 4-8 0.70

Sunroom Requirements Section R402.2.13


• Proposed design to be shown to have an annual energy cost that is less than or equal to the annual energy cost of the standard reference design

• Specifications for standard reference and proposed design are in Table R504.5.2(1)

Simulated Performance Alternative Section R405


Requires computer software with specified capabilities (local official may approve other tools)

Includes both envelope and some systems – Equipment treated equally in standard and proposed design

Allows greatest flexibility – Can trade off tight duct systems

Defines compliance based on equivalency of calculated energy cost or source energy

Section R405 specifies “ground rules” – These will generally be “hidden” in compliance software calculation

algorithms – Similar ground rules are used in home federal tax credits and

ENERGY STAR Home guidelines

Simulated Performance Alternative


• Requires mandatory provisions be met • Building thermal envelope shall be ≥ levels of efficiency

and SHGC in Table 402.1.2 or 402.1.4 in 2009 IECC – Exception

• Supply and return ducts not completely inside building thermal envelope be insulated to a minimum R-6

• Compliance with this method must be completed by an approved third party and documentation including compliance reports must be reviewed by the code official

• Compliance is demonstrated if the calculated ERI is ≤ a defined threshold for the zone in which the building is located

Energy Rating Index Section R406


Climate Zone ERI 1 52 2 52 3 51 4 54 5 55 6 54 7 53 8 53


Table R406.4 Maximum Energy Rating Index


• ERI is defined much like the RESNET HERS Index: – Integer value – 100 corresponds to an “ERI reference design” – 0 corresponds to a net zero energy home – Each integer value represents a one percent change in the total

energy use of the rated design relative to the reference design – ERI considers all energy used in the residence

• ERI differs from traditional performance path – ERI considers all energy used in the residence, whereas the

performance path includes only heating, cooling, lighting, and water heating (excludes appliances and other uses)

– Equipment and appliance efficiencies can be involved in trade-offs

– Credit toward compliance may be available for renewable energy



Floor

Window

Attic Hatch

Foundation

Chimney

Plumbing

Wiring

Exterior Door

Lights

Ceiling

Penetrations

Building thermal envelope (Section R402.4.1)

Recessed lighting Fenestration Fireplaces Rooms with fuel burning appliances

Mandatory Requirements Section R402.4 - Air Leakage


Building thermal envelope

Air Leakage Control Section R402.4.1


Requires BOTH: Whole-house pressure test

• Testing may occur any time after creation of all building envelope penetrations

Field verification of items listed in Table R402.5.1.1

Building Thermal Envelope Section R402.4.1 – Air Leakage

Air Leakage Rate

Climate Zone

Test Pressure

≤ 5 ACH 1-2 50 Pascals ≤ 3 ACH 3-8 50 Pascals


Table R402.4.1.1

Component Air Barrier Criteria Insulation Installation Criteria

General requirements

A continuous air barrier shall be installed in the building envelope. The exterior thermal envelope contains a continuous air barrier. Breaks or joints in the air barrier shall be sealed.

Air-permeable insulation shall not be used as a sealing material.

Ceiling/attic The air barrier in any dropped ceiling/soffit shall be aligned with the insulation and any gaps in the air barrier sealed. Access openings, drop down stair or knee wall doors to unconditioned attic spaces shall be sealed.

The insulation in any dropped ceiling/soffit shall be aligned with the air barrier.

Walls The junction of the foundation and sill plate shall be sealed. The junction of the top plate and the top of exterior walls shall be sealed. Knee walls shall be sealed.

Cavities within corners and headers of frame walls shall be insulated by completely filling the cavity with a material having a thermal resistance of R-3 per inch minimum. Exterior thermal envelope insulation for framed walls shall be installed in substantial contact and continuous alignment with the air barrier.

Windows, skylights and doors

The space between window/door jambs and framing and skylights and framing shall be sealed.

(partial table)


• New wood-burning fireplaces shall have tight fitting flue dampers or doors, and outdoor combustion air

• Tight fitting doors on fireplaces that are: – Factory built – listed and labeled per UL 127 – Masonry – listed and labeled per UL 907

Fireplaces Section R402.4.2


Exceptions Site-built windows, skylights, and doors

Fenestration Air Leakage Section R402.4.3

TYPE AIR INFILTRATION RATE

Windows, sliding glass doors, and skylights

≤ 0.3 cfm/ft2

Swinging doors ≤ 0.5 cfm/ft2


• Climate Zones 3-8 • Open combustion fuel burning appliances where open

combustion air ducts provide combustion air – The appliances and combustion air opening shall be located

outside the building thermal envelope OR – Enclosed in a room isolated from inside the thermal envelope

• Sealed and insulated per Table R402.1.2 • Door gasketed and sealed • Any ducts or water lines insulated per R403

– Combustion air duct insulated to > R-8 where it passes through conditioned space

– Exceptions: • Direct vent appliances with both intake and exhaust pipes installed

continuous to outside • Fireplaces and stoves complying with R402.4.2 and Section R1006-

IRC

Rooms with fuel burning appliances Section R402.4.4


Type IC rated and labeled as meeting ASTM E 283 when tested at 1.57 psf (75 Pa) pressure differential with no more than 2.0 cfm of air movement

Sealed with a gasket or caulk between the housing and interior wall or ceiling covering

Recessed Lighting Fixtures Section R402.4.5


Equipment efficiency set by Federal law, not the I-Codes

Mechanical Systems & Equipment


Controls Heat pump supplementary heat Hot water boiler outdoor temperature setback Ducts

– Sealing (Mandatory) – Insulation (Prescriptive)

HVAC piping insulation Hot water systems Ventilation

– Dampers Equipment sizing Systems serving multiple dwelling units Snow melt controls Pools and inground permanently installed spas

Mandatory Requirements Systems Section R403


At least one programmable thermostat controlling the primary heating/cooling per dwelling unit

Capability to set back or temporarily operate the system to maintain zone temperatures

– down to 55ºF (13ºC) or – up to 85ºF (29ºC)

Initially programmed by manufacturer with:

– heating temperature set point no higher than 70ºF (21ºC) and

– cooling temperature set point no lower than 78ºF (26ºC)

Programmable Thermostat Section R403.1.1 - Controls


Prevent supplementary electric-resistance heat when heat pump can meet the heating load Exception

During defrost

Heat Pump Supplementary Heat Section R403.1.2 - Controls


• One- or two-pipe heating systems have an outdoor setback control to lower boiler temperature based on outdoor temperature.

Hot Water Boiler Outdoor Temp. Setback Section R403.2


Supply and return ducts in attics: R-8 where > 3” diameter, R-6 if < 3”

Other areas: R-6 where > 3” diameter, R-4.2 if < 3”

Duct Insulation Section R403.3.1 - Prescriptive

Location Duct Diameter >3” or <3” Attic R-8 or R-6 Conditioned Space NR Vented Crawlspace R-6 or R-4.2 Conditioned Crawlspace NR Basement – Conditioned NR Basement – Unconditioned R-6 or R-4.2 Exterior Walls R-6 or R-4.2

Examples


Sealing (Mandatory) – Joints and seams to comply with IMC

or IRC

– All ducts, air handlers, and filter boxes to be sealed (Section R403.3.2.1)

Duct Sealing Section R403.3.2 - Mandatory

• Exceptions – No additional joint seals required for air-impermeable spray

foam products

– Continuously welded and locking-type joints and seams other than snap-lock and button-lock types and ducts having static pressures < 2 in. w.c. pressure classification don’t require additional closure systems



• Ducts shall be pressure tested to determine air leakage by either of the following: – Rough-in test

• Total leakage measured with a pressure differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the system including manufacturer’s air handler enclosure

– All registers taped or otherwise sealed – Postconstruction test

• Total leakage measured with a pressure differential of 0.1 inch w.g. (25 Pa) across the entire system including manufacturer’s air handler enclosure

– All registers taped or otherwise sealed – Exception

• Duct air leakage test not required where ducts and air handlers are entirely within the building thermal envelope

• A written report of results of test signed by the party conducting test and provided to code official

Duct Testing Section R403.3.3- Mandatory


Total leakage of ducts, where measured in accordance with Section 403.3.3 shall be as follows:

Rough-in test • Total leakage ≤4 cfm/per 100 ft2 of conditioned floor area

– if air handler not installed at time of test » Total air leakage ≤3 cfm/per 100 ft2

Postconstruction test • Total leakage ≤4 cfm/per 100 ft2 of conditioned floor area

Duct Leakage Section R403.3.4 - Prescriptive


Duct Tightness Tests Section R403.3.3


Air handlers to have a manufacturer’s designation for an air leakage of ≤ 2% of design air flow rate per ASHRAE 193

Sealed Air Handler Section R403.3.2.1 - Mandatory


Framing cavities cannot be used as ducts or plenums

Building Cavities Section R403.3.5 - Mandatory


Mechanical System Piping Insulation Section R403.4 - Mandatory

R-3 required on – HVAC systems

• Exception: Piping that conveys fluids between 55 and 105°F

• If exposed to weather, – protect from damage, including

• Sunlight • Moisture • Equipment maintenance • Wind

– Provide shielding from solar radiation that can cause degradation of material

– Adhesive tape is not allowed


• Heated water circulation systems • Heat trace systems • Demand recirculation systems

Service Hot Water Systems Section R403.5


• Heated water circulation systems – provided with circulation pump – return pipe must be a dedicated return pipe or a cold water

supply pipe – gravity and thermosyphon circulation systems are prohibited

• Controls shall – start the pump based on identification of the demand for hot

water within the occupancy – automatically turn off pump when water in the loop is at desired

temperature and there is no demand for hot water

• Automatic controls, temperature sensors, and pumps shall be accessible

• Manual controls shall be readily accessible

Heated Water Circulation and Temp. Maintenance Systems Section R403.5.1 - Mandatory


• Electric heat trace systems shall comply with IEEE 515.1 or UL 515

• Controls shall automatically adjust the energy input to the heat tracing to maintain the desired water temperature in the piping in accordance with the times when heated water is used in the occupancy

Heat Trace Systems Section R403.5.1.2


• Systems having > 1 recirculation pumps pumping heated water from supply pipe back to heated water source through cold water supply pipe – Shall be a demand recirculation water system – Pumps shall have controls that start pump upon:

• receiving a signal from action of user of a fixture or appliance • sensing the presence of a user of a fixture or • sensing the flow of hot or tempered water to a fixture fitting or

appliance • Controls shall limit the temperature of water entering cold water pipe

to 104ºF

Demand Recirculation Systems Section R403.5.2


Hot Water Pipe Insulation Section R403.5.3 - Prescriptive

• R-3 required on – Piping ≥ ¾ in. nominal diameter

– Piping serving more than one dwelling unit

– Piping located outside the conditioned space

– Piping from the water heater to a distribution manifold

– Piping under a floor slab

– Buried piping

– Supply and return piping in recirculating systems other than demand recirculation systems

Image courtesy of Ken Baker, K energy


Ventilation – Building to have ventilation meeting IRC or IMC or with other

approved means

– Outdoor air intakes and exhausts shall have automatic or gravity dampers that close when the ventilation system is not operating

Whole-house mechanical ventilation system fans to meet efficacy in Table R403.6.1 Exception

When fans are integral to tested and listed HVAC equipment, they shall be powered by an electronically commutated motor

Mechanical Ventilation Section R403.6


• Comply with CSA B55.2 and tested in accordance with CSA B55.1

• Portable water-side pressure loss of drain water hat recovery units shall be < 3 psi for individual units connected to 1 or 2 showers – < 2 psi if connected to > 3 showers

Drain Water Heat Recovery Units Section R403.5.4


Equipment Sizing – Load calculations determine the proper capacity (size) of

equipment • Goal is big enough to ensure comfort but no bigger

– Sizing shall be performed in accordance with ACCA Manual S based on loads calculated in accordance with ACCA Manual J (other approved methods)

Efficiency Rating – New or replacement heating/cooling equipment shall have an

efficacy rating equal to or greater than minimum required by federal law for geographic location of installation

Equipment Sizing and Efficiency Rating Section R403.7


Snow- and ice-melting system controls Automatic shutoff when pavement temperature is

> 50°F and no precipitation is falling Automatic or manual shutoff when outdoor temperature

is > 40°F

Snow Melt System Controls Section R403.9


Pools and spas in accordance with APSP-145 Heaters

– with a readily accessible on-off switch that is integral part of heater mounted on the exterior of heater or external to within 3 feet of heater – Switch shall not change the setting of heater thermostat – Switches shall be in addition to the circuit breaker for the power to the

heater – fired by natural gas not allowed to have

continuously burning pilot lights Time switches (or other control method) to automatically turn off and on

heaters and pumps according to a preset schedule installed on all heaters and pump motors

Note: heaters, pumps, and motors with built-in timers meet the requirement – Exceptions

• Public health standards requiring 24-hour pump operation • Pumps operating pools with solar and waste-heat recovery heating

systems

Pools and Permanent Spa Energy Consumption Section R403.10 - Mandatory


On outdoor heated pools and outdoor permanently installed spas Vapor-retardant cover OR Other approved vapor retarder means

Exception: If >70% of energy from site-recovered

energy

Covers Section R403.10.4


• Energy consumption of electric-powered portable spas shall be controlled by the requirements of APSP-14

Portable Spas Section R403.11 - Mandatory


Systems serving multiple dwelling units shall comply with Sections C403 and C404 in lieu of Section R403

Systems Section R403.8



A minimum of 75 percent of the lamps in permanently installed lighting fixtures shall be high-efficacy lamps or 75% of permanently installed lighting fixtures shall contain only high efficacy lamps Exception: Low-voltage lighting

Lighting Equipment Section R404.1 - Mandatory


Fuel gas lighting systems can’t have continuously burning pilot lights

Lighting Equipment Section R404.1.1 - Mandatory


Existing Building Chapter 5 -- NEW Section R501 - General

Additions, alterations, or repairs

Existing buildings

Maintenance

Compliance

New and replacement materials

Buildings designated as historic


Additions must meet the prescriptive requirements in Table 402.1.2 or 402.1.4 (R-value computation or U-factor or total UA alternatives)

Existing Buildings Section R502 - Additions

N


Additions comply if any of the following is demonstrated The addition alone complies with the provisions of this code

The existing building and addition together comply as a single building

The existing building and addition together use no more energy than the existing building

Existing Buildings Section R502 - Additions


Code applies to any new construction Unaltered portion(s) do not need to comply (R503.1.1.1) Replacement fenestration that includes both glazing and sash must meet

0.25 SHGC in Climate Zones 1-3 0.40 SHGC in Climate Zone 4

except Marine U-factors in all Climate Zones 1-8

Existing Buildings Section R503 - Alterations


Building Envelope Exceptions: Storm windows over existing fenestration Surface-applied window film installed on existing single pane Exposed, existing ceiling, wall or floor cavities if already filled with insulation Where existing roof, wall or floor cavity isn’t exposed Roof recover Roofs without cavity insulation and neither sheathing nor insulation is

exposed during the reroofing – Insulate either above or below the sheathing

Lighting Exceptions: <50% of luminaries in a space are replaced Only bulbs and ballasts within existing luminaries are replaced (provided

installed interior lighting power isn’t increased)



• Heating and Cooling – New HVAC systems and duct systems that are part of the

alteration to comply with Section 403.1, R403.2, R403.3 and R403.6

• Exception: Where duct from on existing HVAC system are extended, duct systems with < 40 linear feet in unconditioned spaces are not required to be tested in accordance with Section R403.3.3

• Service hot water (SHW) systems – New SHW systems that are part of the alteration to comply with

R403.4



• Work on nondamaged components necessary for the required repair or damaged components shall be considered part of the repair and are not subject to the alterations requirements

• Repairs considered part of the code – Glass-only replacements in an existing sash and frame – Roof repairs – Repairs where only the bulb and/or ballast within the existing

luminaires in a space are replaced provided the replacement does not increase the installed interior lighting power

Existing Buildings Section R504 - Repairs